Length of stay after laparoscopic colonic surgery - an 11-year nationwide Danish survey

Abstract

Aim The use of laparoscopic colonic surgery in Denmark was analysed with particular reference to the length of stay. Method Data were obtained from the Danish National Patient Registry to assess duration of hospital stay after laparoscopic colonic surgery in Denmark within the 11-year period from 2000 to 2010. Results There were 4582 laparoscopic colonic resections performed, reaching about 1000 operations/year in the last 2years (2009-2010). Length of stay decreased from a median of 7 to 4days, while mean length of stay only decreased from 9 to 7days. Conclusion The use of laparoscopic colonic resection has increased in Denmark over the last 11years and with a concomitant decrease in postoperative length of stay. However, there is a need for further improvement by combining the laparoscopic technique with fast-track recovery. © 2011 The Authors. Colorectal Disease © 2012 The Association of Coloproctology of Great Britain and Ireland.